Context map in computer display magnification

Abstract

Described is a context map that assists users in determining a current location within a source region of a display monitor that is being magnified. The context map comprises a visible image representing a location of the unmagnified region that is being magnified. The visible image may be an indicator such as a pointer, or a reduced-size representation of the desktop with an indicator therein. The visible image may be made to selectively appear, such as by user command. The magnified content may be displayed on one monitor, and the context map on another. The context map alternatively may be on the same monitor, possibly superimposed over some part of the magnified content. The magnification window may move with a pointing device, and the context map may be docked, or displayed over at least part of the floating window such that the context map also moves with it.

1. In a computing environment having a display device, wherein the display device displays magnified content corresponding to a portion of a desktop display, a method for superimposing a visual indicator on the magnified content to indicate the portion of the desktop display that is being magnified, the method comprising:
 the display device receiving magnified content corresponding to the portion of the desktop display, wherein the portion of the desktop display is less than an entire desktop display; 
 determining the position of the visual indicator, wherein the position of the visual indicator is located at the position of the portion of the desktop display that is being magnified within the entire desktop display, wherein the visual indicator surrounds only the portion of the desktop display that is being magnified; 
 the display device displaying the magnified content on the display device such that the magnified content is displayed on the entire viewing area of the display device; and 
 the display device displaying the visual indicator on the display device over the magnified content. 
 
   
   
     2. The method of  claim 1  wherein the visual indicator comprises one or more arrows that point towards the portion of the desktop display. 
   
   
     3. The method of  claim 2  wherein the arrows are displayed in response to user input.